European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen responded to Russia's threats, accusing Mr Putin of blackmail. Despite the Russian leader's warnings, Ms von der Leyen says the EU will cap Russian energy.
Iran has condemned a decision by Albania to expel its diplomats from the NATO country following a cyberattack two months ago.
The federal government has unveiled plans to establish an agency to coordinate plans for high speed rail in Australia.
A building has collapsed in northern Syria, killing at least 11 people. Seven women, three children and an elderly man have reportedly died in the collapse in Fardous, a southern neighbourhood in the city of Aleppo.
Australia's prime minister has confirmed he will be attending the state funeral for former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe at the end of this month. Anthony Albanese says he will be accompanied by former Australian leaders John Howard, Tony Abbott, and Malcolm Turnbull, who all worked with Mr Abe during his two terms as Japan's prime minister.
